Present Climate Conditions

Severe Storms and Tornadoes: July 14, 2009

Severe thunderstorms developed out ahead of a cool front over western Minnesota during the afternoon of July 14th. Two tornadoes were reported in west central Minnesota. The first report was at 4:23PM, 4 miles southwest of Gilchrist in Pope County, this tornado was also sighted near Scandinavian Lake in Pope County at 4:36. Some turkey bans were destroyed in Swift Falls, Swift County near the Pope County line.

Shelf Cloud at the leading edge of a thunderstorm on July 14 east of Alpha in Martin CountyCourtesy Dianne Swanson

The second tornado touched down in Spicer at 4:40pm, causing damage to signs, vehicles and at least one home. The tornado then tracked across nearby Green Lake and flipped over some boats. No injuries were reported with the tornadoes.

Farther north, two men were reported missing on Blackduck Lake in Beltrami County when stormy conditions capsized their boat.

Below are storm reports and public information statements for the July 14, 2009 severe weather from the National Weather Service.